Semilong Neighbourhood Watch
Community Messages
[NORTHAMPTONSHIRE COMMUNITY MESSAGING - Northamptonshire West - 6.10.09 -All NHW Halloween/Bon-856]
This is a message from Northamptonshire West Police to all NHW.
Halloween
Calls to the police about anti-social behaviour have traditionally tended to increase during October and November, the Halloween and fireworks season.
Not everyone enjoys Halloween and the anti-social behaviour that comes from people playing pranks. The message is simple, have fun but if your behaviour is anti-social, it won't be tolerated. Some guidelines for people planning to trick or treat are: ·
Parents or a responsible adult should always accompany children to make sure they stay safe ·
Parents should identify neighbours who are willing to have "trick or treat" calls and make them aware of the time you plan to call ·
Discuss what tricks are acceptable with your children ·
Trick or treating is an activity for very young children and parents should discourage older children and teenagers.
As a general rule, if youngsters are old enough to trick or treat on their own, they are too old to do it. ·
Keep your tricks within the law - anything that results in damage is an offence and will be dealt with as such.
Do NOT approach houses with the 'NO Trick or Treating' signs. They are there for a reason.
Always keep to well-lit areas.
Wear bright clothing and always carry a torch.
Remember road safety
Lastly, Do not answer the door to unexpected or uninvited callers keep doors and windows closed and locked at all times of the day and night
Bonfire Night
Fireworks in the run up to Bonfire night, people who are thinking of playing with fireworks this year could get their fingers burned in more ways than one.
It is illegal to sell fireworks to anyone under 18 years of age. Maximum penalty of £5000 and/or six months in prison
It is illegal to set off fireworks between 11pm and 7am (Bonfire night extended until 12 midnight)
It is illegal for a member of the public to possess a "display" style firework (Category 4 fireworks, can only be used by professionals)
It is illegal to let off any firework in a public place and this carries a fine of up to £5000. Police may also issue an £80 Fixed Penalty Notice
All fireworks sold to the public must comply to British Safety Standard BS 7114 The Police have the power to stop and search anyone suspected of carrying fireworks
The sale of bangers, mini rockets, fireworks that fly erratically (Squibs, helicopters etc), aerial shells and maroons is illegal
Fireworks can only be stored for private use for up to 14 days, subject to them being stored in a safe place
It is illegal to cause unnecessary suffering to animals with fireworks. Maximum penalty £5000 and/or six months in prison
Ref: WB/CMS/856/09
**Northamptonshire Police Contact Details**
Emergency: 999
Dedicated Watch Line: 01604 XXXXXXX
Northamptonshire Police Switchboard: 101
Alternatively Call Crime Stoppers Anonymously: 0800 555 111 |
